Local Hero Awards 2014

COMPETITORS from the Armed Forces who took part in the maiden Invictus Games were presented with a special Local Heroes award.

Championed by Prince Harry, the 13-nation event was an opportunity for many who came close to losing their lives in combat, to compete in sports ranging from track and field to the pool and the rugby pitch.

The Prince said the games were about using the power of sport to enhance recovery and highlighted how those who have been wounded should be recognised for their achievements postinjury rather than being defined by any limitations of injury.

Among the team of 132 inspirational men and women from the Armed Forces to take part in the competition were those from regiments based on Salisbury Plain. Collecting the award on Sunday were Major Natalie Robinson, Army Legal Services, who won gold in the wheelchair rugby; Sergeant Joanne Morris, Royal Logistic Corps, who won bronze in the cycling time trial; and Bombardier Gary Prout CGC, Royal Artillery, who won silver in the individual archery and gold in the team event.

Bombardier Prout, who was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross in 2010, tore his right shoulder in Afghanistan in 2009 and suffered a severe leg break while training recruits in Scotland last year.

He said: “The games were unbelievable – we always knew they were going to be big but the support from the British public was just phenomenal.

“The event was very inclusive – the oldest competitors were in their sixties and the youngest, 18.

“It’s the first event where we have bridged all of those generations.

“We are really grateful for the recognition from the British public.

“There were 130 people on our team and we will be passing on the message from Salisbury to all of them.”